Chandigarh, January 29, 2004: AMIDST flights of radio-controlled aero models, beats of air-force bands and a host of competitions, the 3 Base Repair Depot (3BRD), today handed over the MI-8 helicopter and two jet engines to Punjab Engineering College (PEC).

Air Commodore SPS Virk, air officer commanding, 3BRD, handed over the chopper on behalf of AOC-in-C, HQ maintenance command, to Dr. Baljeet Kapoor, the PEC principal.

The de-commissioned helicopter has been presented to the college with a view to motivate engineering students to take up aeronautical studies.

Air Cmde Virk said the proposal to provide specialised aviation-related items to engineering students through various resources of the IAF was mooted by former UT Administrator Lt Gen J.F.R.Jacob (retd), last year. The presentation was a step in this direction, he added.

Although the helicopter is not be in flying condition, it is complete in all respects, including rotors, controls, gear box and other components. Two TV-2 engines, which power the MI-8, have also been given. While one engine is kept installed in the helicopter, the other has been provided on a transferable trolley. The local chapter of Aeronautical Society of India organised display of radio flying aero models with the help of No 1 Air Sqn NCC unit.

Others present on the occasion included Air Cmde SB Prasher VSM (retd), who was instrumental in initiating the proposal with the IAF authorities, AOC 12 Wing Air Cmde SS Tilloo, Station Commander High Grounds Gp Capt PP Khandekar and Wg Cdr JS Ahluwalia.